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Suspensory apparatus of the equine coffin bone P3Detail view of the suspensory apparatus of the equine pedal boneHorse hoof plastinate with distal phalanx (P3), hoof corium and wall.Detail view of the structure which might be part of the suspensory apparatus of the distal phalanx in the horse hoof

High resolution anatomical photographs of SI-Sheet plastinates of the hoof show structures which reach vom the coffin bone into the hoof corium. These might be part of the suspensory apparatus of the distal phalanx. I had discussed with Chris Pollitt in the past whether it would be possible to visualise the mesocopic details of the suspensory apparatus of the distal phalanx in sheet plastination specimens. With the help of the SI (Selective Impregnation) – method it might be possible.

I will examine more hoof plastinates and check whether these structures can be found in all hooves or if they might be a result of hoof disease like eg. laminitis. Meanwhile I am looking forward to your comments and ideas.